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  • Our Partners | Safe and Sound Schools | United States

    These organizations, associations, and businesses have donated time, talents, expertise, and/or financial support toward our shared mission of Safe and Sound Schools®. We are truly grateful for their generosity, dedication, and partnership. Safe & Sound & PARTNERSHIPS These organizations, associations, and businesses have donated time, talents, expertise, and/or financial support toward our shared mission of Safe and Sound Schools®. We are truly grateful for their generosity, dedication, and partnership. To learn more about becoming a partner, click the button below. APPLY FOR PARTNERSHIP BECOME A PARTNER Several of these organizations are school safety and security related. It is the responsibility of the consumer to research, vet, and decide whether any of our partners’ services or products may be of benefit to their individual school community. Safe and Sound Schools® makes no product or service recommendations or endorsements. BECOME A PARTNER Your corporation, business, or organization may become a Safe and Sound Schools® corporate partner or supporter. Your contribution will enable us to develop and deliver materials to the nation’s school communities, at no charge, providing education, awareness, and resources for the improvement of school safety and security. BE A PART OF OUR NATIONAL SAFETY COMMUNITY PROVIDE EDUCATION, TOOLS, AND RESOURCES TO SCHOOLS AND LEADERS NATIONWIDE SHARE YOUR ORGANIZATION’S THOUGHT LEADERSHIP BE A PART OF OUR NATIONAL SAFETY COMMUNITYSHARE YOUR BRAND WITH OUR NATIONAL COMMUNITY ENGAGE AND INTERACT WITH SCHOOL COMMUNITIES MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE SAFETY OF OUR NATION’S SCHOOLS PARTNER TESTIMONIALS STATUS SOLUTIONS “Status Solutions recognizes the need to cultivate relationships with those who desire the same outcome. Our sponsorship with Safe and Sound Schools® educates Status Solutions with an honest perspective, allowing us to see the full picture. This relationship is the beginning of an empowerment initiative, uniting our communities to achieve one common goal—safer schools.” Mike MacLeod, President RAPTOR TECHNOLOGIES “Our partnership with Safe and Sound Schools® is an element of our commitment to helping local communities ensure the safety of their children and improving school security by utilizing tools and resources that stop potential threats the moment they walk through the door. Together we’re making our schools safer and creating a community that recognizes student safety as a top priority.” Jim Vesterman, CEO NAVIGATE360 “Safe and Sound Schools® is a remarkable organization with an incredible mission to inform, educate, and deliver critical school safety knowledge to school communities.” Jim Hummel, COO

  • FRANK DEANGELIS | Safe and Sound

    Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Frank DeAngelis, retired principal of Columbine High School, is an internationally recognized leader in leadership, crisis management, and school safety. As principal during the tragic 1999 shooting, he has remained deeply committed to supporting his Columbine Rebels and school communities nationwide. Offering unwavering support from prevention through recovery, DeAngelis emphasizes the core elements of leadership — building strong relationships, fostering support systems, and cultivating resilient school cultures. His firsthand experiences provide unparalleled insights on overcoming adversity, implementing effective safety protocols, and leading through crisis. A recipient of numerous honors, including Colorado High School Principal of the Year and NASRO’s Archie T. Hodge Lifetime Achievement Award, he is a pillar of the school safety community, a highly sought-after speaker, the one to call for organizations ready to prepare for challenges with compassion and courage. WHY Book Frank FOR YOUR EVENT? “Frank was AMAZING! From start to finish, this whole process has been incredible. He was so easy to work with and so accommodating. Our school was laser focused when he was speaking and I can't explain how much our school staff, administration, and students benefitted from his words of wisdom. We are so grateful to have had the opportunity for him to be here. He is an inspiration to all and I feel so lucky to learn from him. Truly an educator that I look up to and admire. He is a gift and I look forward to having him back at SHP in the future.” —Mark Vitale, Assistant Director of Admissions, Seton Hall Preparatory School WHO Books Frank ? Frank’s powerful story and lifelong dedication to creating safer, more supportive schools for students and educators have made him a highly sought-after speaker for a wide range of organizations, including: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Indiana Department of Education The Law Enforcement Against Guns & Violence Conference Seaton Hall Preparatory School Texas A&M International University Great Lakes Association for School Safety Idaho Department of Education Education Service Center Region 3 Salem-Keizer Public Schools Montgomery County Intermediate Unit 23 BOOK TODAY FRANK DEANGELIS Retired Principal of Columbine High School BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Frank TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Culture, Climate & Community Leadership, Law & Policy Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Turning Pain into Purpose Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Leadership Lessons from Columbine and Beyond (Keynote, 1-3 hours) The tragedy at Columbine redefined the nation. Frank DeAngelis tells his story from the events through the aftermath. This presentation reveals the leadership lessons he learned in the focus of an international firestorm. Frank’s honest, straight-forward account provides invaluable insights into managing the after-crisis with students, staff members, community members and never-ending media attention. He shares how he was able to build a community that worked together for his kids: the students at Columbine High School. Panel Discussions and Q&A Sessions Frank offers Q&A sessions following his keynotes or as a separate session. He is also available for panel discussions. As these formats are more organic and highly individualized, Frank is available to discuss and plan for these types of sessions directly with clients. The Road to Resilience 1-2 Hour Keynote Presented as two braided stories, Frand DeAngelis and Michele Gay, Sandy Hook parent, founder and executive director of Safe and Sound Schools, share their transformative roads out of tragedy and into resiliency. They examine critical aspects of resilience along their respective healing journeys to illustrate the importance of proactive resiliency-building, including protective factors, healthy relationships, mental health supports, faith and spirituality, health and wellness, and discovering post-traumatic growth. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Frank DeAngelis is a national treasure who has transformed the school safety conversation world-wide. His honesty and unwavering commitment that those lost in our Columbine tragedy will never be forgotten is reflected in a willingness to share the difficult lessons learned and his own very moving and personal journey. I have worked with Frank for almost a decade during unimaginable crisis events in our District including; the Deer Creek Middle School shooting and the kidnapping and murder of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway, as well as several credible threats to Columbine High School. Frank’s genuine compassion and ability to connect with students, parents, educators and first responders is inspirational and a significant reason we have been able to successfully recover and thrive. Frank didn’t just rebuild the climate and culture at Columbine High School, he restored the faith of our entire community. —John McDonald, Executive Director, Security and Emergency Management, Jeffco Public Schools Frank was excellent! Everyone loved the presentation and wanted more. I wish they could have had more time, but the other sessions prevented that. He did stay for the reception and there were several people that talked to him one on one. He is a great presenter dealing with a tough topic such as that. When you have that type of topic but are still able to have the audience laugh, you are very good. We really enjoyed getting to know him even if it was a short time. —Michele Skinner, Coordinator of Education Initiatives, Texas A&M International University Frank DeAngelis is a national treasure who has transformed the school safety conversation world-wide. His honesty and unwavering commitment that those lost in our Columbine tragedy will never be forgotten is reflected in a willingness to share the difficult lessons learned and his own very moving and personal journey. I have worked with Frank for almost a decade during unimaginable crisis events in our District including; the Deer Creek Middle School shooting and the kidnapping and murder of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway, as well as several credible threats to Columbine High School. Frank’s genuine compassion and ability to connect with students, parents, educators and first responders is inspirational and a significant reason we have been able to successfully recover and thrive. Frank didn’t just rebuild the climate and culture at Columbine High School, he restored the faith of our entire community. —John McDonald, Executive Director, Security and Emergency Management, Jeffco Public Schools Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Frank DeAngelis served as an educator for the Jeffco School District in Littleton Colorado, since 1979, becoming the principal in 1996. A national-level speaker, Frank has addressed numerous professional and school audiences on the topic of recovery after a school-based tragedy. He has visited, consulted, and assisted school communities across the country following incidents of violence and tragedy, including Platte Canyon, Chardon, Virginia Tech, and Sandy Hook. Frank received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his lifetime of service as an educator. He was selected as Colorado High Principal of the Year and was one of the three finalists for National Principal of the Year. He recently received the Jefferson Country Lifetime Achievement Award and the Gandhi, King, Ikeda Community Builders Award. He retired in June of 2014 after 35 years at Columbine High School. He is presently serving as a consultant for safety and emergency management for the Jeffco School District in Colorado, and continues to travel nationally and internationally, speaking and consulting. Book Frank TODAY!

  • OFFICER MEG SOULTZ | Safe and Sound

    Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU WHY Book Meg FOR YOUR EVENT? WHO Books Meg ? BOOK TODAY OFFICER MEG SOULTZ Co-Founder Rescue in Color Public Safety and Emergency Medical Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Meg TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Book Meg TODAY! Testimonials

  • TEXAS SCHOOL SAFETY CENTER | Safe and Sound

    TEXAS SCHOOL SAFETY CENTER VISIT TEXAS SCHOOL SAFETY CENTER Next Partner Previous Partner

  • ANNEMOSS ROGERS | Safe and Sound

    Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU AnneMoss Rogers is a compelling mental health speaker known for her raw authenticity and evidence-informed approach to suicide prevention. What sets her apart is her ability to connect deeply with audiences through lived experience, turning personal tragedy into a powerful catalyst for change. Her talks equip schools and organizations with practical tools to foster emotional wellness, build resilience, and create cultures of open dialogue around mental health. AnneMoss is uniquely effective at breaking stigma and inspiring action, making her an essential voice for any community serious about supporting mental health. WHY Book AnneMoss FOR YOUR EVENT? “AnneMoss Rogers is probably the most resilient person I know. She has managed to turn grief into action. I had the pleasure of presenting with her at the Pediatric Academic Societies conference and her part was absolutely the best. She received a standing ovation. I have been to this conference for two decades and I have never seen any speaker receive a standing ovation. She was powerful. She was moving.” -Lisa Horowitz, PhD, MPH, Staff Scientist/Clinical Psychologist, National Institute of Mental Health WHO Books AnneMoss ? AnneMoss’s emotionally raw storytelling and practical, stigma-reducing strategies have made her a compelling and in-demand speaker on mental health and suicide prevention. Known for her relatable, inclusive approach, she equips audiences with actionable tools to foster resilience, connection, and early intervention. AnneMoss is an ideal choice for schools, workplaces, and organizations seeking to create emotionally healthy environments where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Recent audiences include: National Institute of Mental Health American Academy of Pediatrics The American Association of Suicidology (AAS) TEDx Speaker Nebraska Department of Education Boston Public Schools Fairfax County Public Schools University of South Dakota North Carolina State University ESI Management Group Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by AnneMoss Rogers - book her today! BOOK TODAY ANNEMOSS ROGERS Mental Health and Suicide Education Expert BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING AnneMoss TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Check out AnneMoss Rogers’ books Diary of a Broken Mind and Emotionally Naked: A Teacher’s Guide to Preventing Suicide and Recognizing Students at Risk wherever books are sold. SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Culture, Climate & Community Substance Use & Addiction Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Support Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Turning Pain into Purpose: Surviving a Son’s Depression, Addiction, & Suicide Approximately 60 minutes with optional 30-minute Q&A Mental health and suicide education expert, AnneMoss Rogers has built a following on suicide, and the mental illness and addiction that often trigger it. After trying to find help for her once joyful son and rap artist, including wilderness therapy and therapeutic boarding school, Charles became addicted to heroin and died by suicide on June 5, 2015. This presentation is about her journey to healing by dragging an unpopular topic into the spotlight, how giving back has helped her heal, and how a blog community that came together in their shared pain has saved lives in the most surprising and unconventional of ways. Takeaways: How stigma played a role in Charles’s downward spiral One mom’s unconventional way to save lives Turning grief into action to find a path to healing What to say or do when someone is struggling Forgiving oneself after a loss by suicide Themes include substance misuse, mental health, suicide, parenting, resilience, coping skills, hope and healing. AnneMoss follows safe messaging reporting guidelines on suicide. Spotting Students at Risk: The Educator’s Role in Preventing Suicide and Other Self-Harm Behaviors Audience: University faculty and K-12 educators 45-90 minute training, virtual or in-person How can you spot students who might be at risk for suicide? What do you do if you feel like someone is at risk? How do you have difficult conversations? How do you find support? Whether it’s having a conversation with someone who is stressed or talking to someone who might be suicidal, this presentation will empower educators with the words and tools needed to be the bridge to support. You don’t have to fix this. But you can allow another human to feel seen and heard which is the greatest gift you can offer. Learning outcomes: How to spot students/co-workers at risk and what to say/do How to be a trusted adult and wisdom guide Simple shifts in teaching that promote wellness and enhance learning The art of listening Self-care for you Links to resources and protocols Social Media, Search, & Mental Health: Insights and Interventions Approximately 60 minutes with optional 30-minute Q&A, virtual or in-person After losing her son, Charles, to suicide, digital marketing expert, AnneMoss Rogers starting using Google search skills and social media to provide resources and support when people need it the most. This presentation will help you understand the complex relationship between online search, social media and mental health. Find out the profound impact of the digital world on mental well-being, with a special focus on the sensitive issue of suicide and how we can intervene online when people have lost hope. Discover strategies to navigate the digital landscape responsibly and promote mental health awareness online. Learning Outcomes: How the digital world has contributed to mental health struggles and what we can do. Learn how to recognize cries for help online and learn what to say/do. Find out how we can we use digital platforms to promote help seeking behavior. This presentation will include resources on how to promote suicide prevention in social media. Emotionally Naked® Workplace Wellness Audience: Managers, executives, HR and EAP leaders, safety leaders, employees 60 minute training, virtual or in-person Emotionally healthy employees perform better, are absent less, and more likely to stay. This upstream commitment of workplace wellness is the foundation of a prevention culture that emphasizes connection and belonging. Part of this initiative is building resilience, and defining self-care strategies so employees have the tools and resources to manage anxiety, adversity, change, and future leadership positions. Crisis response always costs more and uses up more resources and time. Any effort to avoid that is a plus for any company HR team, DEI, or safety leader. Learning Outcomes: Coping strategies and DBT skills for managing adversity, avoiding conflict and burnout Small, creative, and doable strategies for big changes in workplace wellness How to create a culture of connection so employees don’t want to leave How to allow others to feel heard and therefore feel valued Life events that make people more vulnerable to despair How to be a leader, not just a boss Learn the most important skill for managing your emotional well being Youth Suicide Prevention, Intervention, Postvention Audience: K-12/university faculty and support staff Half-day training Participants will have the opportunity to work through scenarios and discussions to strengthen their ability to gain insight, tools, and resources to work through one of the most difficult topics those working with student’s face. This empowers educators to speak on an uncomfortable topic. While it focuses on students, the strategies for adults and co-workers are similar. This 3.5-hour training will focus in three parts on: Part I – Prevention Signs to look for in young people ages 6-25. What to look for in artwork, on social media sites, and papers students write. Going upstream to prevent students from getting to crisis. A review of case studies of how teachers have integrated coping and critical thinking into their curriculum and how that helps kids build resilience and coping skills. Creating a suicide safe environment (means restriction such as breakaway closet rods) Part II – Intervention What to say, what to do, scripts and role play on how to respond. Scripts for effectively and supportively addressing conversations and situations with students in an age appropriate and sensitive way. How to encourage students over 18 to talk to their parents if appropriate giving them some agency in the process so they feel more grounded in their own care Part III- Postvention The top errors most administrators make after a school suicide that can put other vulnerable students at risk. How to support staff and students in their grief after a suicide of a teacher or student. What to do and say to the parent of a deceased child. (Downloadable script template) What educators can say to students who accuse teachers of holding back or lying when the parent has asked that the cause of death not be disclosed. How to prevent contagion and cohort suicide. Memorial guidelines and creating a commemoration policy Early Intervention Works: Mental Health Education for Birth to 5 Years Audience: Early educators and state caseworkers 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, virtual or in-person (also available as a series) It was a teacher who first told AnneMoss Rogers that her son, Charles, might be suffering from depression. And it was a teacher who wrote the most heartfelt note after her son died by suicide. There were early signs that Charles might have future struggles, yet few knew what effective intervention looked like or what to do. Schools and pre-schools have something few other environments have and that’s opportunity for early intervention and genuine human connection. This is the most valuable currency in today’s education community. How can we leverage those opportunities to bolster a culture of child wellness, build resilience, and give kids the tools they need to manage life going forward? Learning outcomes: What are the risk factors and how can pre-school educators strengthen the protective factors? How to spot kids early who need extra support. Age-appropriate ways to have challenging conversations (talk bubbles or scripted role play conversations) The single most important skill to teach preschoolers for emotional regulation. Early intervention case study that started with a pediatrician saying, “He’ll grow out of it,” and a mom who didn’t accept that answer. A case study of how a kindergarten educator builds emotional awareness and coping skills into her classroom. Games and activities plus other resources to bolster early emotional wellness. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “I had the privilege of attending the hosted event this past week with keynote speaker AnneMoss Rogers. I find I have few words to describe the evening…it was riveting. It gave me pause and has stayed with me. I’ve had several conversations this week with friends who feel the same. I hope Anne Moss Rogers will be back again next year.” -Lori, Parent in a California School District “Good luck dozing off or pseudo listening to AnneMoss Rogers. Even those up all night couldn’t avert their focus to her dynamic ability to connect. We all learned so much from her, and she puts it all on the line. If you want a keynote speaker, or someone to connect with you on a visceral level, Mrs. AnneMoss Rogers is who you want.” -Mike Ross, Patrol Officer, Fairfax County Public Schools Safety and Security Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY AnneMoss Rogers has lived the ultimate tragedy and become an expert on emotional wellness, suicide prevention, and postvention, with a niche focus on youth mental health. She educates through storytelling, and shares hope, coping strategies, and straightforward, practical takeaways. Her youngest son, Charles, was the funniest, most popular kid in school. As a teen, he wore the mask of a clown to hide depression and used drugs and alcohol to numb his pain. He would become addicted to heroin and take his life in 2015 at age 20. The most devastating loss of her life was a turning point. While it took time to accept that purpose with grace, she has never looked back or regretted that decision. Putting her grief into action, she authored the award-winning memoir, Diary of a Broken Mind and the Amazon best seller, Emotionally Naked: A Teacher’s Guide to Preventing Suicide and Recognizing Students at Risk with co-writer Dr. Kimberly O’Brien. A TEDx speaker, AnneMoss has been featured in both the New York Times and Variety. She was the first non-clinician invited to speak on youth suicide at the National Institute of Mental Health. She is a registered safeTALK suicide prevention trainer, and she is both ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) and ASK-trained. A UNC - Chapel Hill alumna, she currently lives in Richmond, VA, and her surviving son Richard is a film editor in LA. Book AnneMoss TODAY! Testimonials

  • Pathways for Prevention

    Created to provide a practical approach to school violence prevention with universal violence prevention strategies, as well... Pathways for Prevention Created to provide a practical approach to school violence prevention with universal violence prevention strategies, as well... Safe and Sound Schools is proud to introduce our newest program, Pathways for Prevention! This program was created to provide a practical approach to school violence prevention. Participants will explore universal violence prevention strategies, as well as targeted and intensive interventions for preventing and responding to violent behaviors to support safe and sound learning environments. Next Item Previous Item

  • About | Safe and Sound Schools | United States

    Founded by parents who lost children at Sandy Hook, Safe and Sound Schools is a national non-profit school safety advocacy and resource center that provides research-based tools and support for crisis-prevention, response, and recovery. Safe and Sound Schools is committed to protecting every school and every student, every day. We are Sandy Hook parents, educators, and community members—all inspired by our children and educators who perished on December 14, 2012. Together can make a difference. Together we can make our schools Safe and Sound. OUR STORY READ MORE Our mission is to support school crisis prevention, response, and recovery, and to protect every school and every student, every day. We have always — and only — focused on school safety. OUR MISSION READ MORE Learn about our founders and meet our team, staff, and board. We welcome the opportunity to serve you. OUR TEAM READ MORE These organizations, associations, and businesses have donated time, talents, expertise, and/or financial support toward our shared mission of Safe and Sound Schools®. OUR PARTNERS READ MORE Learn more about our nationally recognized panel of speakers. OUR SPEAKERS SPEAKERS LIST If you have questions, we have answers. Browse through our top frequently asked questions, and always feel free to contact us anytime. FAQ READ MORE Safe & Sound ABOUT US Founded by parents who lost children at Sandy Hook, Safe and Sound Schools is a national non-profit school safety advocacy and resource center that provides research-based tools and support for crisis-prevention, response, and recovery. Safe and Sound Schools is committed to protecting every school and every student, every day. SEE OUR STORY

  • MISSY DODDS | Safe and Sound

    Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU On Monday, March 21, 2005, Missy’s life was forever changed when a former student shot his way into her classroom at Red Lake High School, where he killed a co-worker and five of her students before taking his own life. Since that day more than 20 years ago, Missy has been on a meaningful journey from victim to survivor, finding her voice and purpose as an advocate and speaker. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of school violence on her students and community, she now dedicates her work to helping schools build safer, more supportive educational environments. In her presentations, Dodds emphasizes the importance of comprehensive safety strategies, including mental health resources, emergency preparedness, and community engagement. Her unique perspective as both a survivor and a champion for change makes her an impactful speaker, offering valuable insights on how to create proactive, resilient school cultures that prioritize student safety and foster bright futures. WHY Book Missy FOR YOUR EVENT? “Thankful for Missy Dodds’ willingness to share her traumatic experience at the hands of a targeted mass shooter and her journey of healing in its aftermath. Her message was well received by the audience and her personal experience clearly had an impact on the attendees on the importance of behavioral threat assessment in the prevention of future mass attacks.” —Nicole Tuomi Jones, Ph.D., LP, CTM, Psychologist, Behavioral Threat Assessment Unit, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation WHO Books Missy ? Missy Dodds’ unique blend of raw honesty and deep compassion make her a popular speaker among a wide range of audiences and organizations, including: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Indiana Department of Education North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Texas State University - Texas School Safety Center Texas Department of Public Safety Arkansas Safe Schools Association Delta Kappa Gamma West40 Intermediate Service Center (ISC) Vivent Health BOOK TODAY MISSY DODDS Survivor of the Red Lake High School Shooting BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Missy TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Culture, Climate & Community Recovery & Resilience After Trauma Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Choosing to Survive: Lessons from Red Lake 1-2 Hour Keynote In this session, Missy shares both her personal journey of navigating life after a school shooting and her quest to understand how a school shooting can even happen. Through the pain, guilt and hard decisions, she is open and honest about her struggles, successes and how she now defines acceptance. Missy also shares how she found her “missing piece”—the answer to what she believes could have prevented the events on March 21, 2005. Missy’s presentation is suited for all educators, school-based law enforcement, school-based mental health providers, and community stakeholders. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Ms. Dodds was engaging, entertaining, and well-received by the audience. She made valid points that were useful for the threat assessment training, and shared her own story to highlight that targeted mass attacks have impacts on survivors as well. She also did a good job of stressing the value of threat assessment as a tool to prevent violence. —Earl Sam, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Missy provides a heart-wrenching and heart-warming presentation regarding her experience with a school shooting. She reminds us that safer schools are the responsibility of the entire community - the entire community, not just educators and parents. We are challenged to do something and build those safe and healthy connections between our students, educators, and community at large. —Nicole Lentz, Manager of Pharmacy Academics, Vivent Health Thank you again for the opportunity, as Missy shared with us such an impactful story. Her resilience, courage and willingness to forgive inspires me. As I help navigate myself, my children, and family through our life journeys, Missy reminded me: when someone is dealing with a mental health crisis that ‘no one is at fault.’ Thank you, Missy, for being an advocate for safer school, and I wish you joy each and every day! — Ruth Rivera Crawford, Executive Administrative Assistant, Vivent Health Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY On Monday, March 21, 2005, Missy Dodds’ life was forever changed. A former student shot his way into her classroom at Red Lake High School in Northwest Minnesota. He killed a teacher and five of her students before taking his own life. Since that day, Missy has worked hard on her healing journey. This journey has taken her down many roads: learning to live with PTSD, the difference between being a victim and being a survivor and learning to allow her own children to experience and love school as much as she did. These paths have led Missy to becoming a school safety and mental health advocate. While Missy no longer teaches high school math, she is passionate about sharing what she has learned to help schools, parents and communities understand the importance of a comprehensive approach to school safety and recovery. Missy’s court case, Dodds vs Red Lake School District Workman’s Comp, helped to change the law in Minnesota to include PTSD as a viable workman’s comp claim. In 2015, Missy shared her story of recovery in the award-winning documentary, Red Lake, produced by Billy Luther. In 2018, Missy joined Safe and Sound Schools as a National Parent Ambassador and now serves as a regular speaker and outreach and training specialist for the national school safety non-profit. In 2022, Missy received the Outstanding Service Award from the Mu Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma for her work in school safety. She also serves as a parent representative for her local school district’s Emergency Operation Planning Committee and on her local Boys and Girls Club’s Program and Safety Committee. Born and raised in Arkansas, she lives in Northwest Minnesota with her husband and three children. Missy holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master of Science in Mathematics Education from Bemidji State University. Book Missy TODAY! Testimonials

  • JOHN MCDONALD | Safe and Sound

    John McDonald is a recognized expert in school safety and crisis management, with a strong track record of developing and implementing strategies that protect students, staff, and communities. As the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of the Council for School Safety Leadership, as well as the COO of the Missouri School Boards’ Association Center for Education Safety, he brings a wealth of experience in creating comprehensive safety plans, improving emergency preparedness, and guiding organizations through real-world crises. John’s approach emphasizes proactive risk management, building resilient safety cultures, and fostering collaboration among school leaders, law enforcement, and community stakeholders. As a speaker, he offers actionable insights on crisis prevention, response, and recovery, making him a valuable resource for schools and organizations committed to strengthening their safety and security measures. WHY Book John FOR YOUR EVENT? “For years, we tried to find a school safety consultant or agency that brought real life experience and expertise to the table rather than just personal opinions. Upon finding John McDonald, it was apparent to me and our nearly fifty public schools that our search was over. Since December of 2012, we have worked closely with John to standardize our school safety programs county wide. From threat assessments to student/staff and first responder response and reunification and recovery, John has been here to guide us through it all .” —Kevin Burd, Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office, Hunterdon County, New Jersey WHO Books John ? John McDonald is a dynamic and respected leader in school safety and crisis management, known for his clear, pragmatic approach and deep operational expertise. A seasoned speaker and advisor, John brings real-world experience to every stage of safety planning—from prevention to response and recovery. His collaborative style and actionable guidance resonate with school leaders, emergency personnel, and community partners alike. John is a top choice for organizations seeking to strengthen their safety culture, enhance preparedness, and build lasting resilience across their systems. Recent audiences and conferences include: Lake County Regional Office of Education Hunterdon County, New Jersey Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by John McDonald – book him today! BOOK TODAY JOHN MCDONALD Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer, Council for School Safety Leadership (CSSL) BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING John TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! Coming Soon: John’s new book, “The Essential 5” will be released in 2025. Stay tuned for more information! SPEAKER Topics Include Safety & Security Leadership, Law & Policy Operations & Emergency Management Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management Violence Prevention Strategies Physical Security & Risk Assessment Emergency Preparedness Strategies Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Stop Justifying and Believe the Threat 45-minute to 1.5-hour Keynote 25 years into the modern era of school violence, and we continue to struggle with the prevention, preparation for, response to, and recovery from school shootings. This keynote is a direct, honest conversation about the challenges, failures, and lessons learned, as well as successes and trends occurring around the country. Developed for both educators and first responders, this discussion addresses vital issues these groups are facing, including threat management practices, emergency management, incident command principles, and classroom management struggles. It’s time to stop justifying and believe the threat. “The World Isn’t a Scary Place...But it is Uncertain” 45-minute to 1.5-hour Keynote Nationally recognized school safety leader John McDonald is known for developing the post Columbine security program recognized by the White House following the Sandy Hook tragedy as a model school safety program. His work on the front lines of school safety has included managing ongoing threats to Columbine HS, leading the district through the 2nd Deer Creek Middle School shooting, the kidnapping and homicide of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway while walking to school and the tragic suicide of a student who set himself on fire at school in front of more than 200 classmates. John’s presentation will discuss the challenges of being a responder and the impact of loss, trauma and the challenges of responsibility when even the responders’ assumptions are shattered. No Higher Calling 45-minte to 1.5-hour Keynote Law enforcement and educators alike share a common bond and belief that protecting our most precious resource–our children– is the greatest of responsibilities. Breaking down silos and a willingness to have difficult conversations today is the difference in success or failure of tomorrow's crisis. This presentation shares proven and successful strategies that will create a climate and culture of safety and quality education. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 “John is wonderful to work with and an outstanding presenter. I really enjoyed meeting him and the knowledge he brings to school safety is amazing.” —Shay McCorkle, Director of Educational Services, Lake County Regional Office of Education “John’s presentation went over very well. I know of one attendee that left with a commitment to go back and work on a ‘disaster’ emergency plan that would involve his fleet of vehicles. So, I would say his presentation was thought provoking and action promoting. John was a delight to work with. I’m sure we will be working together again.” —Gloria Showalter, Executive Assistant & Events Coordinator at Synovia Solutions Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY John McDonald co-founded The Council for School Safety Leadership (CSSL) in 2022, and today serves as the organization's chief operating officer. This new national school safety organization provides crisis management services for executive leaders. Within CSSL's first two months, John assembled a network of national experts and hit the ground running by supporting executive school district leaders after a school shooting in St. Louis, which was the 7th school shooting John has responded to or provided support to during the past 14 years. John's work protecting kids has been featured on the front page of the Washington Post and in the Showtime documentary "Active Shooter: America Under Fire," as well as in the FBI documentaries "Echoes of Columbine" and "In the Aftermath." John is recognized internationally as the architect of the post-Columbine tragedy safety, security, and emergency management plan, now considered a gold standard in the industry. For 14 years, John was responsible for protecting 86,000 students and 14,000 employees as executive director of school safety for Jeffco Public Schools in Colorado. Along the way, he made a difference by leading school safety preparedness, response, and recovery efforts not just in Colorado, but also in districts around the country following various school-related tragedies. In 2016, John created the Frank DeAngelis Center for Community Safety, located in Colorado. This first-of-its-kind, school-owned active shooter training center has provided no-cost training to more than 12,000 first responders and educators. Following the Sandy Hook tragedy, the White House asked John to speak about the importance of active shooter preparedness in America's schools and the imperative of building positive relationships between schools, students, and law enforcement. In 2022, John was awarded the prestigious Homeland Security ASTORS award for "his dedication to safeguarding our nation's children." John's work helping school districts make sense of the unimaginable so kids and teachers can get back to the business of learning goes far beyond school shootings. He led Jeffco Public Schools' recovery efforts following kidnapping and homicide of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway in Westminster, Colorado and after the public suicide of a student who set himself on fire in front of 200 students. Often sought out as a national presenter and by media both for us insight and his willingness to share the uncomfortable truths impacting school communities, John provides support for K-12 and higher ed institutions because he believes that every student deserves a safe learning environment free from threat, intimidation, and harassment. John earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology from Metro State University in Colorado. His experience as a former police officer, proud Army National Guard veteran, and senior manager of U.S. investigations for a worldwide corporation have provided the foundation for a life's work protecting the most innocent. Book John TODAY!

  • MICHELE GAY | Safe and Sound

    Featured AVAILABLE TO BOOK EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE SAFE AND SOUND SPEAKERS BUREAU Michele Gay, founder and executive director of Safe and Sound Schools, is an internationally recognized leader in comprehensive school safety. After the tragic loss of her daughter, Josephine, in the Sandy Hook School shooting, Michele turned her grief into action, dedicating her life’s work to protecting and educating school communities. As the primary author of the Safe and Sound Schools Comprehensive Framework for Safety Planning and Development, she provides a practical guidance across six key pillars: emergency management, community engagement, physical safety, mental and behavioral health, school climate, and overall wellness. A trusted subject matter expert, Michele’s voice and inclusive approach foster collaboration among administrators, multidisciplinary teams, school resource officers, parents, and leaders at the local, state, and federal levels. WHY Book Michele FOR YOUR EVENT? "Michele’s presentations to parents, educators, and policy makers provide the perfect balance of emotion and practical guidance. She promotes an approach to school safety that strikes the important balance between physical and psychological safety. Her efforts have helped to ensure schools have comprehensive safety and crisis plans, with special attention being given to reunification and recovery. ” —Stephen E. Brock, Ph.D., NCSP, LEP, Past President National Association of School Psychologists WHO Books Michele ? Michele’s powerful story and purposeful delivery have made her a highly sought-after international speaker. Typically booking 6–12 months in advance, she brings deep subject matter expertise and a practical, inclusive approach to school safety that resonates with diverse audiences. Michele is an ideal choice for schools, agencies, and organizations committed to creating safe and supportive educational environments. Recent audiences and conferences include: National Summit on K12 School Safety and Security, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS) National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) The School Superintendents Organization (AASA) National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) British Columbia Ministry of Education Deaf School Safety Task Force Texas School Safety Center Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services Vermont Governor’s School Safety Conference Michigan Office of School Safety Academy (PrepTalks Conference) Federal Emergency Management Agency Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) United States Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (Protecting America’s Schools) Add your school or organization to the list of those inspired by Michele Gay – book her today! BOOK TODAY MICHELE GAY Founder and Executive Director of Safe and Sound Schools Sandy Hook Parent BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Michele TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Mental & Behavioral Health Health & Wellness Safety & Security Culture, Climate & Community Leadership, Law & Policy Operations & Emergency Management MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) Prevention - Lessons Learned from Averted School Violence Case Studies School Violence Prevention Strategies Student Safety Training Inclusive School Safety Best Practices for Safety Drills and Training Emergency Preparedness & Response Active Shooter Preparedness & Response Recovery & Resilience After Tragedy Turning Pain into Purpose Lessons Learned from Tragedy Resilience Reunification for the School Community Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. Rethinking School Safety: A Parent’s Perspective 1-2 Hour Keynote Michele tells her personal story and recounts the lessons she learned on December 14, 2012 and in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook School tragedy. She shares the inspiring way she has chosen to help school communities improve school safety in honor of her daughter, Josephine, and memory of the other 19 children and six teachers lost on December 14, 2012. Michele’s perspective, as the mother of a special-needs child and former elementary school teacher, provides unique insight and inspiration for parents, administrators, school staff, emergency responders and community members who strive to make their schools safer. Michele Gay and the Safe and Sound foundation bring an important message to our communities and represent a powerful presence in our national school safety community. Reunification for the School Community Keynote, Half, or Full Day Workshop Michele draws on her personal experiences and offers valuable insights from the Sandy Hook School tragedy to guide school communities in preparing for safe, successful, and supportive reunification processes. Alongside Dr. Melissa Reeves, another recognized leader in the field of school safety, Michele shares both personal and professional perspectives on school-based reunification. Together, they explore best practices, current reunification models, and lead scenario-based tabletop exercises to equip participants with the tools and strategies necessary for effective reunification planning and preparation. Beyond Tragedy: Response and Recovery in a School-Based Crisis 1-2 Hour Keynote Michele shares her personal perspective on the Sandy Hook School response and recovery efforts. Based on her own experiences, those of victims, survivors, first responders, community leaders, educators, families, and children in the Sandy Hook and Newtown community, Michele outlines the challenges, successes, and lessons learned in the aftermath of tragedy and loss to better prepare others to respond and recover from emergencies, crisis, and disaster. She shares insights on emergency notification, communication, death notification, protection of victims and victims’ families, mental health needs and services, media management, and financial considerations, as well as other issues surrounding the response and recovery efforts within Sandy Hook and Newtown. Engaging the Community in School Safety: Tools and Ideas for Safer Schools 1-Hour Seminar or Workshop Michele offers presentation and discussion of the Safe and Sound model, toolkits, and tools according to the needs of the attendees. Michele’s sessions can be tailored to specific and various school safety stakeholders or delivered to a mixed group, shared in a seminar format, hands-on workshop, or breakout style. As an active member of the school safety community, Michele is prepared to share expert resources and discuss many of the programs and interventions available to communities striving to improve school safety. Students First: Developmentally Appropriate & Trauma-Informed Safety Education 1-2 Hour Workshop Michele addresses one of the most pressing and timely concerns school communities face today: developing and delivering safety curricula and training with respect to the unique needs of students and staff of all ages, abilities, and educational levels. Using Safe and Sound’s models for teaching and training, Michele empowers staff to determine objectives and activities for developmentally appropriate and psychologically safe education and training in the K-12 school setting. Especially Safe: Ensuring the Safety of EVERYbody Keynote and/or Half Day Workshop Through inclusive planning, we can create a culture of safety and security for our children, students, parents, and staff to depend on in emergencies of all kinds. Inspired by her daughter, Josephine, Michele shares her personal insights into school safety preparedness as the parent of a child with autism, developmental, and physical disabilities and the Especially Safe program created in her honor. Dedicated to helping school communities plan and prepare & teach and train for the safety of individuals with special needs, Michele will share the inspiration behind the program as well as its practical application for increasing empowerment and building a positive culture of safety for all members of your school community. The Road to Resilience 1-2 Hour Keynote Presented individually or as two braided stories, Michele shares her transformative journey from out of tragedy and into resiliency alongside several Safe and Sound presenters such as Frank DeAngelis, retired Columbine principal, Natalie Hammond, former Sandy Hook School administrator, Missy Dodds, former teacher at Red Lake High School, and Dr. CJ Huff former superintendent of the Joplin, Missouri Schools. She examines critical aspects of resilience along her own healing journey to illustrate the importance of proactive resiliency-building, including protective factors, healthy relationships, mental health supports, faith and spirituality, health and wellness, and discovering post-traumatic growth. Perspectives In Prevention: From Sandy Hook to Sycamore 1-2 Hour Keynote Presented in braided format with Safe and Sound presenter Molly Hudgens, school counselor at Sycamore Middle School Michele, this moving presentation contrasts two pathways to violence. Exploring numerous opportunities, practical strategies, and best practices for intervention, Michele and Molly the power of each of us collectively to change the trajectory of an individual on the pathway to violence. Hindsight to Foresight: From Red Lake to Sandy Hook 1-2 Hour Keynote Presented with former teacher and survivor, Missy Dodds, two powerful voices share lessons learned through their tragic experiences at Sandy Hook School and Red Lake High School. Michele and Missy provide their valuable hindsight as foresight for school communities who seek to ensure safe and sound schools and bright futures for every child. Panel Discussions and Q&A Sessions Michele offers Q&A sessions following her keynotes or as a separate session. She is also available for panel discussions. As these formats are more organic and highly individualized, Michele prefers to discuss and plan for these types of sessions directly with clients. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Michele Gay was a keynote for our annual safety summit. She was so inspiring and her expertise was invaluable. Some of the comments from our districts included ‘the lessons that were learned on that day resonated with me. I’m meeting with my committee this week,’ and ‘we cannot ever prepare for every scenario but we need to plan, plan and plan some more. I see Sandy Hook as our district… This won’t happen here. I appreciated her testimony and work for safe schools.’ I have met with many attendees since the summit, and they have said they are revisiting their EOPs to ensure they are prepared the best they can be for their students, teachers, parents, and communities. That was the goal of our summit and I am glad we had Michele to energize that effort. —Bilinda K. McCutcheon, Education Specialist, Region 17 Education Service Center, Texas Michele’s presentation, ‘Rethinking School Safety: A Parent’s Perspective’ was eye-opening on many levels. We believe that hearing her story on how events truly unfolded really puts a different perspective on school safety. It shows how important it is for all levels of administration, from principals down to the teachers… [to] be ready to jump into any role that is needed at the time of an emergency. —Jamia McDonald, Executive Director, Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency We had the honor of having Michele Gay speak at our School Safety Summit to an audience of our district and school leadership. Her presentation … was both inspirational and educational in providing our schools with great ideas that they could take back to their school and implement immediately. I cannot think of a more meaningful presentation that truly hits home with everyone in the audience. —Paul Hildreth, Emergency Operations Safety & Security, Fulton County Schools Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Mother, educator, and co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools, Michele Gay chose to take action after losing her daughter Josephine Grace on December 14, 2012. Since that time, Gay has channeled her work as an advocate, improving safety and security in schools and communities across our country. With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Towson State University, Gay earned her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from McDaniel College. Prior to the Sandy Hook tragedy, she taught at the elementary level in the Maryland and Virginia public schools. Now a nationally and internationally recognized public speaker and school safety expert, Gay reaches audiences and consults with all levels of community institutions — schools; municipalities; houses of worship; educational and public safety leadership; state and federal governments; law enforcement agencies; and top news media sources. Through her work, and always with a goal of helping others increase the safety within their own communities, Gay shares her personal experiences and the lessons she has learned. The recipient of numerous national awards, Michele is a regular contributor for print, radio, and television outlets. The primary visionary and author of Safe and Sound’s programs and materials, Michele has served as a stakeholder voice in national legislative discussions. Through these works she continues to build Safe and Sound Schools as a national hub of school safety education, technical assistance, expert content, and best practices. Michele’s impassioned position on school safety hinges on every community taking a comprehensive and sustainable approach to safety. She works diligently to unite stakeholders of all disciplines and perspectives. As an educator, mother, and survivor of tragedy herself, Michele is uniquely positioned to help others. She has dedicated her life to honoring Josephine’s memory by ensuring that every school, every child, and every community is truly safe and sound. Book Michele TODAY! Testimonials

  • DAVE OKADA | Safe and Sound

    WHY Book Dave FOR YOUR EVENT? WHO Books Dave ? BOOK TODAY DAVE OKADA President, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Dave TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. BOOK NOW Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Book Dave TODAY! Testimonials

  • BRIAN TOWNSEND | Safe and Sound

    WHY Book Brian FOR YOUR EVENT? WHO Books Brian ? BOOK TODAY BRIAN TOWNSEND Retired Supervisory Special Agent/Resident Agent in Charge with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) BOOK NOW << Back to All Speakers Get Inspired TO BRING Brian TO YOUR NEXT EVENT! SPEAKER Topics Include Signature PRESENTATIONS Click on the titles to learn more about each signature presentation and fill out the form below to book for your next event. BOOK NOW Testimonials Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Go Go Speaker BIOGRAPHY Book Brian TODAY!

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